Biodiversity and invasive species [SBIOB346]

Learning outcomes

Biodiversity section: -To understand the classical theories of biodiversity (niche and neutral theories) and the associated models. -Apply a community model to study coexistence in R. -To understand the different effects of biodiversity on the functioning of ecosystems. Invasive Species section : - To understand the process of a biological invasion, as well as the different ecological notions linked to the phenomenon; - To understand the potential impact of biological invasions and the importance of effective management measures (based on concrete examples); - To understand the importance of biological invasions as a scientific discipline: - Apply all the concepts to a concrete case of biological invasion.

Objectives

Biodiversity section: - To develop an understanding of the classical mechanisms of coexistence and diversity, and to understand the consequences of these processes for the functioning of ecosystems. - Train students to use a simple ecological model. Invasive Species section : - Understanding the mechanisms of biological invasions - Apply the concepts to a concrete example (exam)

Content

The course consists of two parts: biodiversity (given by F. De Laender), and invasive species (given by J. Marescaux). The focus is on the most important processes controlling biodiversity and the presence of invasives: "Community assembly and dispersion.